Intensive 20 vs A1 Course: Differences and Objectives

If you are looking to learn Spanish in Spain, you will very likely come across two common options at most Spanish language schools: the Intensive 20 Spanish course and the A1 level Spanish course. Although both have the same number of teaching hours, they are not designed for the same type of student and do not share the same objectives.

At Instituto Hispánico de Murcia we offer both courses, and choosing the right one from the start is key to making the most of your stay and your investment. At the end of this article, we will show you clearly and visually the main differences between these two Spanish courses.

Intensive 20 Spanish course: fast and flexible progress

The Intensive 20 Spanish course is a general programme with 20 classes per week, from Monday to Friday. It is aimed at students of all levels, from beginners to advanced learners. Before starting, students take a placement test, which allows them to join a group that matches their actual level of Spanish.

The main objective of this course is to improve Spanish intensively, with a strong focus on spoken communication, while also covering grammar and vocabulary.

During the course, you will work on:

• Applied grammar
• Practical vocabulary
• Listening and reading comprehension
• Spoken and written expression
• Spanish for real-life situations

This course is ideal for those looking for flexibility, as it can start almost any week and can be booked for as long as the student needs. It is a very popular option among international students who want to improve their Spanish quickly.

A1 level Spanish course: starting from zero

The A1 Spanish course is designed exclusively for absolute beginners. It is a structured course with fixed start and end dates and a standard duration of four weeks, also with 20 classes per week.

The objective is clear: for students to acquire the foundations of the Spanish language and reach the content corresponding to A1 level of the CEFR. The programme follows a logical and guided progression, making it ideal for those who have never studied Spanish or have only very, very basic knowledge.

In this course, you will learn to:

• Introduce yourself and talk about yourself
• Ask for basic information
• Communicate in everyday situations
• Use essential vocabulary and structures

It is the best option if you are looking for organisation, structure and a solid starting point.

Differences between the Intensive 20 course and the A1 course

The main difference is not the number of hours, but the approach:

• The Intensive 20 course is flexible and adapts to the student’s level
• The A1 course is a closed programme, designed exclusively for beginners

One accompanies you throughout your progress; the other teaches you from scratch.

Advantages and disadvantages of each course

1. Intensive 20 course – Advantages• Flexible start dates and duration
   • Classes adapted to your level
   • Ideal for improving Spanish quickly
2. Disadvantages• Not a closed, level-specific programme
   • Requires greater learner autonomy
3. A1 course – Advantages• Structured programme
   • Clear objectives from day one
   • Ideal for absolute beginnersDisadvantages

   • Fixed dates
   • Less flexibility

Spanish certification: important information

Our school does not officially certify Spanish language levels. Official certification can only be obtained through the Instituto Cervantes, via the DELE or SIELE exams, which you can take at our school. Instituto Hispánico de Murcia issues certificates of attendance and enrolment, stating the course taken and its duration.